Education
Madison: Name Meaning, Origin, Popularity, & Inspiration
Madison, a name with both English and American roots, has evolved from a surname to a popular given name, especially for girls.
Origin: Madison originated as an English surname meaning “son of Maud.” Maud is a medieval form of Matilda, derived from the Germanic elements “maht” (might, strength) and “hild” (battle).
Meaning: While its original meaning relates to Maud, Madison is now often associated with the concept of “child of a mighty warrior” due to its components.
Popularity:
- Gained popularity as a girl’s name in the 1980s
- Peaked in the early 2000s, ranking in the top 10 US girl names
- Still remains popular, though has declined slightly in recent years
Inspiration:
- Madison Avenue in New York City
- James Madison, 4th US President
- Character Madison in the 1984 movie “Splash”
Variations:
- Madisyn
- Madyson
- Maddison (more common in the UK)
Madison offers a blend of strength and femininity, appealing to parents seeking a name with both traditional roots and modern flair.